Discover the versatility of arugula by exploring these delectable recipes that showcase its nutty, peppery, and slightly bitter flavors. As a fan of this superfood’s unique characteristics, you might be accustomed to purchasing it in bulk.
With its impressive nutritional profile boasting calcium, potassium, folate, and an array of vitamins, it’s no wonder arugula has earned its reputation as a health superstar. But do you know how to unlock the full potential of this peppery green?
While classic salads are always a great starting point, arugula is surprisingly adept at starring in many main course culinary masterpieces. Here’s a curated selection of the most mouthwatering dishes you can create with arugula!
Pasta with Asparagus, Arugula and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
In this pasta recipe, the subtle nuances of arugula and asparagus harmonize to create a light yet satisfying dish. While the presentation may evoke springtime freshness, the sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy summer essence that elevates the flavors to new heights.
The pungency of garlic and fresh herbs melds with the vibrant green hue to deliver a symphony of fresh and zesty notes. To take it to the next level, sprinkle some parmesan cheese (or opt for vegan for an even healthier twist) and watch your veggie-packed pasta disappear in record time.
Orzo Arugula Salad
For those who’ve grown tired of rice, orzo proves a reliable substitute in salads. Similarly, when spinach runs out, arugula makes an excellent spinach replacement. This delightful pasta salad serves as a testament to the pair’s harmonious union. With its sweet, creamy, and chewy textures, and a peppery flavor that ties everything together, this quick and nutrient-dense salad presents itself as the ideal healthy lunch option for your workday break. Furthermore, its vibrant colors and juicy texture make it impossible not to crave on a daily basis.
Roasted Butternut Squash Arugula Salad
When you’re in the mood for roasted squash, there’s no better pairing than arugula. The combination is a symphony of flavors – sweet, spicy, and finished off with a delightful tang that will leave your taste buds singing. While this salad also boasts a medley of other ingredients like tomatoes, olives, fresh lemon juice, black pepper, and crumbly feta cheese, the real magic happens when you add a sprinkle of cinnamon. This warm spice brings a depth to the dish that’s simply irresistible.
Watermelon Arugula Salad
This standout arugula salad recipe boasts a rich tapestry of flavors, featuring sweet and refreshing watermelon, pungent arugula, tangy balsamic vinegar, and creamy goat cheese. The combination is nothing short of phenomenal, delivering a burst of nutrients with each satisfying bite. As the perfect accompaniment to your summertime backyard gatherings, this salad’s harmonious balance of flavors will quickly become a staple. For an added touch of sweetness, simply drizzle some honey over the mix, elevating the dish to new heights.
Shrimp, Arugula, and Burrata Pasta
Looking for a delightful dinner recipe that’s both simple and elegant? Look no further than this delectable pasta dish featuring baby arugula as the star of the show. The combination of tomatoes, creamy white wine sauce, succulent shrimp, and burrata cheese is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. And with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as the palate.
Honeydew Melon Skewers
Imagine the elegance of melon cubes threaded on skewers alongside soft mozzarella balls and peppery arugula leaves. This sophisticated appetizer is sure to impress your party guests. The addition of aged balsamic glaze adds a tangy depth that harmonizes the flavors, making it not only refreshing but also surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prosciutto Plum Arugula Salad with Mozzarella
Imagine a harmonious union of flavors and textures in a single salad bowl. A bed of peppery arugula serves as the foundation, topped with tender prosciutto slices that add a meaty depth. Plums bring natural sweetness, while soft mozzarella pearls provide a creamy contrast. The symphony is complete when you toss everything together with a zesty lemon dressing, infused with a hint of mustard for added complexity. This foolproof salad is simplicity itself to prepare yet explodes with flavor, making it an instant regular on your table. While other smoked meats can be substituted, prosciutto’s rich, savory essence has won me over as the go-to choice.
Prosciutto Melon Panzanella Salad
As we delight in pairing succulent fruits with peppery arugula leaves, another summer salad caught my attention – one that not only looks stunning but also packs a flavorful punch. Imagine a harmonious blend of juicy cantaloupe, creamy mozzarella, crispy prosciutto, and crunchy croutons resting on a bed of vibrant green arugula. This symphony of textures and tastes is a must-try for any salad enthusiast.The recipe cleverly uses lemon as the dressing base, but I find that oranges bring an added layer of depth to the dish. Feel free to experiment with both options and be your own critic – what’s your verdict?
Arugula Pesto
If you’re running low on basil for your pesto sauce, consider a creative alternative – arugula! With its peppery flavor complemented by walnuts, parmesan, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, this sauce is surprisingly delicious. While it’s true that basil-based pesto has an iconic taste that can’t be fully replicated with arugula, this spicy pesto still packs a flavorful punch. Just be mindful of the amount of lemon juice, parmesan, and salt you use, as they help balance out the bitterness of the leaves.
Corn and Arugula Salad
Indulge in a culinary delight that combines the sweetness of fresh corn and tanginess of tomatoes with the creaminess of cheese. This flavorful salad is elevated by the peppery kick of arugula, making it a nutritious treat that’s hard to resist.
nThe combination of textures and tastes is truly irresistible – so fresh, creamy, and spicy that you’ll find yourself going back for bite after bite.
nWhile blue cheese adds a pungent flavor profile, feel free to substitute with your preferred type to suit your taste buds.
Blistered Tomato Toast with Pesto and Arugula
Picture this: succulent cherry tomatoes roasted until they’re blistered and bursting with juicy flavor, paired with peppery arugula that provides a delightful contrast. Now imagine taking it to the next level by adding toasted bread infused with the richness of garlic and the smoothness of olive oil. It’s a match made in heaven! And let’s not forget the crowning glory – a sprinkle of creamy pesto that adds depth and complexity. Topped off with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese, these vibrant toasts are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Arugula Pizzas
For the uninitiated, arugula pizza is an absolute game-changer. This recipe takes the classic pizza formula to new heights by incorporating peppery arugula leaves that add a delightful depth of flavor and texture. And let’s be real – if you have finicky eaters or picky kids at home, what better way to sneak in some essential green nutrients than by turning them into a delicious pizza? It’s a win-win! This cheesy, fresh, and mouthwateringly good pizza is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Peach Arugula Salad
Indulge in the symphony of flavors as sweet peaches harmonize with tangy arugula, invigorated by the bright essence of mint and the unmistakable zing of fresh basil. This revitalizing salad is the perfect refuge from the summer heat when a quick and satisfying lunch is needed.
nThe toasted almonds bring a delightful textural contrast, their crunch melding seamlessly with the juicy peaches and peppery arugula leaves in a culinary marriage made in heaven. Meanwhile, a light drizzle of olive oil, a hint of mustard, and a splash of balsamic vinegar conspire to create an experience that is nothing short of refreshing and sublime.
Brie and Truffle Burger with Mushrooms, Arugula and Crème Fraîche
The humble brioche bun gets a flavor boost with the addition of peppery arugula leaves. This recipe elevates the classic burger to new heights by incorporating unexpected ingredients like crème fraiche, earthy mushrooms, and luxurious truffles. The result is a truly extraordinary dining experience.
Arugula Smoothie with Avocado
Arugula has taken center stage as the new kale in the world of green smoothies, and rightfully so! The slightly bitter flavor profile is a perfect match for sweet and creamy ingredients like bananas and pineapple. Adding avocado gives it a rich and velvety texture that’s simply irresistible.Imagine sipping on this refreshing blend on a hot summer afternoon, the perfect way to beat the heat. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for seconds – or even thirds! So go ahead, double the recipe and get ready to indulge in a taste sensation like no other.
Citrus Arugula Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
When we combined citrus, arugula, and pomegranates, the resulting salad was elevated to new heights in terms of texture and flavor. But what really takes it over the top are the additions of goat cheese and avocado, which not only add creaminess but also boost the nutritional value. The toasted walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, although it’s worth noting that the salad still shines even without them. It’s truly an exceptional combination.
Arugula Pizza with Roasted Grapes
Transforming your pizza game requires a bold move – introducing unconventional toppings like grapes and arugula. Once you take the plunge, be prepared to elevate the entire experience. The sweetness from the grapes harmonizes with the peppery undertones of the arugula, creating a delightful contrast that adds depth to the classic crust and cheese combination. As an added bonus, the shallot and olive oil drizzle brings a savory sophistication to the salad-like topping, resulting in a flavor profile that’s nothing short of mouthwatering.
Sweet Potato, Wild Rice and Arugula Salad
Imagine revving up your workday with a delightful rice salad that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, the peppery zing of arugula, and the nutty crunch of pecans with the tanginess of cranberries, crisp apples, and toasty pepitas – all tied together with a rich, mustardy balsamic vinaigrette. Feel free to get creative and swap in your favorite nuts and fruits, but I highly recommend trying this harmonious blend first. For more inspiration, check out our collection of college lunch recipes.
Strawberry Salad with Arugula and Salted Caramel Walnuts
The classic combination of arugula, balsamic, and strawberries is already a winner in terms of flavor. However, when you introduce feta cheese and walnuts to the mix, the salad takes on an entirely new dimension. The key to this transformation lies in the sweet caramelization of the walnuts, which adds an irresistible crunch to each bite. For those who crave a little more heat, simply increase the amount of hot pepper flakes – doubling or tripling it will give your taste buds a thrilling boost.
Cantaloupe Salad
A medley of flavors comes together in harmony with the union of cantaloupes, prosciutto, lemon, mozzarella, mint, basil, arugula, red onions, and a dash of shallots. This symphony of tastes is perfectly balanced, with each component playing its part in creating a refreshingly delicious salad experience. While you can tailor it to your liking, one thing is certain – this salad recipe makes for a satisfying and light meal option.
Arugula Pesto Prosciutto Tomato Pizza
Transform your dinner with a harmonious combination of flavors by topping a crunchy pizza crust with fresh arugula leaves and perfectly arranged prosciutto slices. What sets this particular pizza apart is its departure from traditional tomato sauce, replaced instead by the rich, herby flavor of pesto sauce. The crowning glory, of course, is the arrangement of juicy tomato slices atop this savory base, which would be incomplete without a generous sprinkling of melted mozzarella cheese, carefully shredded to provide that satisfying cheesy taste that’s hard to resist.
Fig, Pear, Walnut, Brie, Honey and Goat Cheese Pizza
What truly elevates this fruity pizza is the harmonious union of arugula, pears, and figs, backed by the creamy presence of brie, goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts. However, the crowning glory is the caramelized onions on top, which introduce a depth of sweetness that beautifully complements the fruit’s natural flavors and textures. While Anjou pears are an excellent choice for this recipe, Bosc or any other ripe and succulent type will also yield delightful results.
Spiced Butternut Squash Feta Salad with Arugula
For anyone who shares my passion for spices, this squash and arugula salad is a must-try. The harmonious blend of paprika, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a depth of flavor that’s perfectly balanced by a tangy dressing and the creaminess of crumbled cheese. You’ll be hard-pressed to stop at just one serving. The recipe recommends using feta, but feel free to substitute with your favorite cheese – goat cheese is another delicious option to consider.
Arugula Smoothie with Pineapple and Mango
There’s no better way to beat the summer heat than with a revitalizing tropical smoothie that’s as cool as it is nutritious. And what sets this particular recipe apart is its unexpected yet surprisingly tasty addition: arugula. Yes, you read that right – the peppery green that’s typically associated with salads adds a delightful depth of flavor to this fruit-packed blend. When combined with pineapples, mangos, banana, and a squeeze of lemon juice (or lime or orange for a variation), it creates a refreshing treat that’s as perfect for a summer afternoon as it is for a post-workout pick-me-up. The key ingredient? A splash of citrus, which elevates the smoothie from tasty to tantalizing.
Arugula Hummus
Imagine combining tahini, chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, your favorite spices, and peppery arugula. If you’re new to this flavor profile, it’s time to take the plunge! The beauty of hummus lies in its simplicity – just toss all the ingredients into a food processor, blend until smooth, and enjoy. This recipe is so quick and effortless that you’ll be whipping up a delicious dip in no time. And trust me, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your crunchy veggies and tortilla chips.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Rosemary Chickpeas
Indulge in the perfect union of arugula and chickpeas, elevated by the zesty and juicy essence of lemons. Add a fragrant touch of rosemary, along with your favorite salad fixings like creamy avocado, peppery radishes, and luscious tomatoes. This harmonious blend is sure to quench your thirst on even the hottest summer days. And if you prefer the sweet and tangy flavor of oranges, feel free to substitute in their place – a refreshing twist on this already delightful combination.
Lemony Arugula Salad with Shrimp
Indulge in a culinary delight that will leave you craving for more. This delectable recipe combines the sweetness of shrimp with the peppery flavor of arugula, all wrapped up in a harmonious union. A handful of fresh arugula is topped with succulent pan-cooked shrimp, finished off with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice, and garnished with shaved parmesan for an added burst of savory goodness. And the best part? This mouthwatering dish comes together in no time at all, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Quinoa Arugula Salad with Pineapple
This arugula salad recipe is a game-changer for anyone feeling stuck in a rut when it comes to lunch options. The combination of quinoa, peppery arugula, sweet pineapple, and crunchy red bell peppers creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s sure to hit the spot.
nThe dressing is where things get really exciting – a zesty blend of lime juice, drizzled with honey for a touch of sweetness, and finished off with fresh mint leaves. It’s a match made in heaven!
>If you don’t have pineapple on hand, fear not! Peaches or mangoes would be delightful substitutions, as long as they’re ripe and bursting with flavor.
Garlicky Mushroom Ricotta Pizza with Wild Arugula and Aged Balsamic
The aroma of freshly baked crust gives way to a harmonious blend of flavors as you take your first bite. The combination of arugula, mushrooms, garlic, and ricotta is elevated by the tangy zing of aged Balsamic vinegar, perfectly balancing each other’s bold notes. The parmesan, chives, shallot, and other toppings add depth to each morsel, while the crusty base provides a satisfying crunch. This delectable pizza is sure to shake up your Italian dinner nights, ensuring that no two meals are ever alike.
Arugula Parmesan Pita Pizzas
While they may not be traditional pizza slices, these crispy triangles are actually topped pita breads – and who’s to argue when the result is a snack or side dish that’s this satisfying? With only a few essential ingredients, these arugula and cheese pita slices pack a punch of flavor that will leave you craving more. And if you want to take things to the next level, try adding some crunchy chopped nuts for the ultimate bite experience.
Zucchini Arugula and Feta Frittata
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate, look no further than this green-loaded frittata. While some may find spinach too familiar or overused, there’s no denying the magic that happens when combined with other fresh garden veggies and a sprinkle of crumbly feta cheese. With four generous cups of peppery arugula, one zucchini, and a touch of creamy goodness from the feta, your morning eggs will be elevated to new heights. And why not take it up another notch by serving with some juicy tomatoes on the side? Pair that with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice and you’ve got yourself a breakfast fit for royalty.
